I’ve come to Japan a few days ago and will be living here for the next few months, and while I am studying here, I will also be visiting many places as this is an opportunity I probably won’t have for a long time after I return to the US.
Now that I am considered a “resident”, I would like to know if there is any tips that would help me blend in to the locals, and what I should do when visiting places during my stay here. I have done some of my own Googling, and know about Japanese mannerisms, etiquette, and transit tips, but I would like to know if there is anything else that would be helpful that most guides on the internet do not include. Should I carry bills or coins on me? How often should I put money on my IC card?
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Edit: Also need to open a JP bank account, if anyone knows how that works and can tell me that would be appreciated.
4 comments
You…carry money as you normally would and charge your ic whenever you need to…?
Tbh, if your Japanese is good enough, consider asking someone that works there for best practices.
If you can, with enough nuance, explain that you want to have the best experience – not just with whatever the location offers but also as a person in Japan / on the planet (by respecting local customs), I imagine most will likely be very happy to support. And you’ll likely come away with an incredible experience and insight into the local history and culture, as well as the site you’ve visited.
Alternatively, consider getting a local guide at the places you visit, who can explain the correct things to do.
Unless you are very Japanese in appearance, you will stand out and be noticed as “not Japanese”, and therefore there will be no expectation of you to “blend in with the locals”.
I mean, are you of Japanese descent? If not, no.
Maybe if you don’t dress up in the provided rental ninja costume while speaking loudly in a US accent “wowwww this jinja is totally like the one in that one episode of Kimetsu no Yaiiibaaa” it might help.. but actually they would probably prefer if you did.
Carrying bills and coins = both normal. Put money on your IC card as needed for transportation. I don’t think any of the money stuff you asked is something 日本人 specific.
As for the bank account, if you’re opening with Japan Post (ゆうちょ): when I opened mine all of the forms were in Japanese so if you do it at the location and you’re not fluent, you might want to bring a fluent speaker with you. I think now though they have an option to fill in the application form online in several languages. Also bring your residence card and passport. You can choose between a bankbook and cash card, or only a cash card. Bear in mind that the cash card can only be used to withdraw from ATMs, and not as a debit/credit card.